If you live in an area that experiences frequent ice and snow during the winter, you probably understand how dangerous and terrifying driving in such conditions can be. As most drivers familiar with winter weather can attest, driving in ice and snow means that you must pay closer attention to the road and adjust your driving practices accordingly to keep you and your passengers safe.
Driving more slowly, braking earlier, leaving more space between vehicles and having your car checked regularly at your local auto repair shop are all ways to stay safe. But sometimes it takes much more than just a change in your driving behavior to stay safe on the road. When conditions are really bad, it may be time to think about asking your tire service in Basalt, CO about installing winter tires.
What are winter tires?
Winter tires are specifically designed to handle the challenges of driving that commonly arise during the winter months. These specialty tires have tread patterns specifically designed in order to dig down and really grip onto the snow and ice. They are made from softer rubber compounds that retain their flexibility in cold conditions, which allows the tires to conform more easily to the surface of the road.
Normal tires tend to just get brittle in winter temperatures, but the cold is where winter tires thrive. Winter tires are able to keep a better grip on snowy and icy surfaces than any all-season or summer tire ever could. This super grip not only keeps you from getting stuck in the snow, but also allows you to stop and steer your vehicle with more control. Here are two key reasons why winter tires may be your best defense in poor winter conditions:
- Better grip: When the roads are covered in snow or ice, winter tires are clearly the best choice when it comes to tires. They are built to handle winter conditions with their soft rubber, high grip and deep tread, in order to keep you as safe as possible during difficult driving conditions. Knowing that you have snow tires will leave you feeling much more secure. If you live in an area where winters are harsh, snow tires are a must.
- Superior braking: When road conditions are terrible, braking can be the factor that saves your life. All-season tires are known to lock up and skid on icy roads, but winter tires can actually dig into snow and ice, allowing you to brake without losing control of your vehicle, even in situations in which you have to react quickly≥
It’s important to remember that winter tires have their name for a reason. Driving on winter tires during the warmer months of the year can cause the tires to wear out faster, so it’s important to switch them out when the seasons change. To learn more about winter tires or invest in tire service in Basalt, CO, visit Basalt Quick Lube, Tire & Alignment today and feel comfortable and secure going into the winter season.